MH370 Operational Search Update—24 February 2016

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This operational report has been developed to provide regular updates on the progress of the search effort for MH370. Our work will continue to be thorough and methodical, so sometimes weekly progress may seem slow. Please be assured that work is continuing and is aimed at finding MH370 as quickly as possible.

Key developments this week

Fugro Discovery departed Fremantle on 20 February and is expected to arrive back in the search area tomorrow. Subject to weather, the vessel will commence deeptow operations using the towfish which was recovered from the seafloor by Havila Harmony.

Fugro Equator continues to conduct underwater search operations.

Havila Harmony is currently on weather standby. It is anticipated that improved weather conditions will allow the resumption of underwater search operations in the next 48 hours.

Dong Hai Jiu 101 departed Fremantle for the search area on 22 February. The vessel is expected to arrive in the search area on 25 February.

Underwater search operations

Weather may continue to impact on search operations but more favourable conditions are currently being experienced.

More than 85,000 square kilometres of the seafloor have been searched so far.

In the event the aircraft is found and accessible, Australia, Malaysia and the People's Republic of China have agreed to plans for recovery activities, including securing all the evidence necessary for the accident investigation.

Consistent with the undertaking given by the Governments of Australia, Malaysia and the People's Republic of China in April last year, 120,000 square kilometres will be thoroughly searched. It is anticipated this will be completed around the middle of the year. In the absence of credible new information that leads to the identification of a specific location of the aircraft, Governments have agreed that there will be no further expansion of the search area.

[Click map to view larger image]

Weather

Current poor weather as a result of the proximity to the search area of ex-tropical cyclone Uriah, is expected to ease in the coming days bringing more favourable conditions by Saturday.